The Remains of the Day Group

Question:

autumnbreeze
autumnbreeze
Student
College - Junior

In the novel, "The Remains of The Day," was it Mr. Stevens' intent to become like his father? If so, why?

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Posted by autumnbreeze on Sunday June 15, 2008 at 10:37 AM and tagged with characters, duty, father, stevens, the remains of the day, themes.

Answers:


  1. bmadnick Teacher
    High School - 11th Grade

    Stevens does want to be just like his father because his father was the epitome of what a perfect butler should be. His father put his duty as a butler above all else, and Stevens strives to achieve this level of dedication to duty as well. A good butler took pride in his work, paying attention to every detail necessary in running a large house. He needed to plan and organize every part of the gentleman's life he served, and he needed to do it well. This is the legacy Stevens' father passed on to him. Unfortunately, Stevens ends up just like his father, a man alone with no family who cares for him. Stevens looks back with pride that on the night his father died, he was able to continue his duties with the utmost professionalism, not allowing his father's death to interfere with his duties to Lord Darlington. Even after all of his reflection on his life, Stevens decides the only thing left for him to do is be the consummate butler for Mr. Farraday by learning how to banter with him.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/remains-day

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    Posted by bmadnick on Wednesday June 18, 2008 at 12:02 AM